More Than 200 Students Suffer Heat Exhaustion in Basilan
Nearly 200 students fainted and lost consciousness due to extreme heat during a school parade on July 24 in Basilan. Then, 26 more students suffered the same condition at the closing ceremony of the school intramurals held in Isabela City, local disaster authorities reported.
Officials from the Isabela City disaster risk reduction and management office (CDRRMO) revealed that the heat index reached 36 degrees Celsius on that Saturday, based on weather-monitoring websites. The affected students were from Basilan National High School (BNHS), who participated in the parade as part of their intramurals’ opening events.
Repeated Heat Incidents Raise Concerns
Despite the earlier incident on Thursday, another group of students fainted on July 26 during the closing ceremonies. Prolonged sun exposure and extreme heat were identified as the main causes. It remains unclear how long the students remained outdoors or why preventive measures were not enforced during the event. Attempts to contact school officials for clarification were unsuccessful.
The stricken students were immediately brought to the BNHS clinic, while others were taken to nearby hospitals for further care. As of Sunday morning, only one student remained under observation.
Local Officials Highlight Climate and Health Issues
Isabela City Councilor Asan Al-Ameen Camlian, who chairs the health, sanitation, and nutrition committee, noted that these incidents expose critical challenges related to climate change and health. He emphasized the importance of addressing stress management and mental health alongside physical well-being in such extreme conditions.
The CDRRMO issued a heat advisory warning residents that the heat index could soar from 37°C to 40°C between July 27 and August 1. They cautioned that such temperatures could lead to heat cramps, heat exhaustion, or even heat stroke if exposure is prolonged.
Safety Measures to Beat the Heat
To protect the community, the disaster office urged residents to stay hydrated by drinking water regularly, even without feeling thirsty. Avoiding direct sunlight, especially between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m., is crucial. Wearing light, breathable clothing and using umbrellas or hats when outdoors can help reduce heat exposure.
The public was also advised to limit strenuous activities during peak heat hours and never leave children or pets inside parked vehicles. Checking on vulnerable groups like the elderly, young children, and people with existing health risks is equally important.
For more news and updates on heat exhaustion incidents, visit Filipinokami.com.
